Not a listed stairwell design?

Not a listed stairwell design?

• A. Straight
• B. Round
• C. Ogee
• D. Return

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is understanding which stairwell geometries are recognized for safe, code-compliant egress. Straight stairs are the simplest and most common, round (circular) stairs exist as a defined option, and return stairs describe a path that turns back on itself within a floor or between floors. An ogee, on the other hand, is a decorative S-shaped curve typically seen in arches and moldings, not a practical or standard stairwell shape used for evacuation design. Because fire and life-safety codes favor predictable, easily navigable paths with clear landings and headroom, an ogee isn’t listed as a stairwell design. That’s why it’s not considered a listed option, while straight, round, and return are.

The key idea here is understanding which stairwell geometries are recognized for safe, code-compliant egress. Straight stairs are the simplest and most common, round (circular) stairs exist as a defined option, and return stairs describe a path that turns back on itself within a floor or between floors. An ogee, on the other hand, is a decorative S-shaped curve typically seen in arches and moldings, not a practical or standard stairwell shape used for evacuation design. Because fire and life-safety codes favor predictable, easily navigable paths with clear landings and headroom, an ogee isn’t listed as a stairwell design. That’s why it’s not considered a listed option, while straight, round, and return are.